Redrock Falls
| Trail Features: | Waterfalls, Lakes, Scenic views |  |
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| Trail Location: | Swiftcurrent Pass Trailhead | ||||
| Roundtrip Length: | 4.2 Miles | ||||
| Total Elevation Gain: | 285 Feet | ||||
| Avg. Elev Gain / Mile: | 136 Feet | ||||
| Highest Elevation: | 5145 Feet | ||||
| Trail Difficulty Rating: | 4.77 (easy) | ||||
| Parking Lot Latitude | 48.79763 | ||||
| Parking Lot Longitude | -113.67854 | ||||
Trail Description:
Redrock Falls is reached via the Swiftcurrent Pass Trail, located at the very end of Many Glacier Road. You can find the trailhead at the far end of the parking area near the Swiftcurrent Motor Inn.
Roughly one-third of a mile from
the parking lot you’ll reach a side trail that leads to the first
destination
on this hike, Fishercap Lake. It’s a very short distance to the lake,
less than
a hundred yards. Although some might bypass this gem, it’s well worth
the short
side trip, as the views of the lake and the surrounding mountains are
quite stunning.
There’s a very nice beach area that makes for a great picnic spot, or
even a nice
short hike to take small kids. Fishercap Lake is also a good place to
spot a moose,
as they are known to frequent this area.
At roughly 0.8 miles the trail passes through a long stretch of aspens growing alongside the path, making this trail an excellent choice for a fall hike when the leaves change to golden yellow and orange.
For the most part the trail travels under the canopy of the forest, but there will be several open areas along the way that provide outstanding views of the surrounding mountains. You’ll also pass through quite a few patches of thimbleberries and huckleberries, providing for some tasty snacks along the way. Although this is a very popular trail, hikers should still make plenty of noise in order to warn any bears that you’re in their territory.
At 1.7 miles you’ll reach Redrock
Lake, the second destination on this hike. The views from the lake are
simply
beautiful. You’ll have commanding views of 8851-foot Mt. Grinnell and
Swiftcurrent Glacier towards the southwest. Almost directly west of you
is 8436-foot
Switftcurrent Mountain. If
you look closely,
near the very top, you may be able to make out the fire tower.
On the opposite side of the lake, sitting below Mount Grinnell, is Redrock Falls.
From here the trail proceeds along the northern shore of the lake. As you make your way around to the far western shore you’ll pass some interesting red rock formations that provided the naming inspiration for the lake and falls.
At just over 2 miles hikers will reach an unmarked split in the trail. Walking a short distance on the left fork will lead you to the lower falls.
Redrock Falls is actually a series of cascading falls. In my opinion, these waterfalls are one of the more impressive falls in Glacier. Upon arrival at the lower falls you’ll notice several small side trails, or social trails, that lead up to various vantage points that offer views of the lower and upper falls. It’s well worth the easy scramble if you’re looking for some great photographic opportunities.
After returning back to the main trail you can continue for a short distance to view the highest falls in the series, with Swftcurrent Mountain providing for the perfect scenic backdrop.
The hike to Redrock Falls is an outstanding hike. Since it’s relatively short and relatively flat, this is an excellent choice for a really great hike for the entire family.
